There is provided a focus adjustment apparatus. A first obtainment unit obtains a focus degree in a predetermined region of a shooting range. A driving unit drives a focus lens in response to an operation unit being operated. A movement amount of the focus lens per unit of an operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is lower in a case where the focus degree is greater than a focus threshold than in a case where the focus degree is lower than the focus threshold. The focus threshold is higher in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that increases the focus degree than in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that reduces the focus degree.
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1. A focus adjustment apparatus comprising: a first obtainment unit configured to obtain a focus degree in a predetermined region of a shooting range; and a driving unit configured to drive a focus lens in response to an operation unit being operated, wherein a movement amount of the focus lens per unit of an operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is lower in a case where the focus degree is greater than a focus threshold than in a case where the focus degree is lower than the focus threshold; and the focus threshold is higher in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that increases the focus degree than in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that reduces the focus degree.
This invention relates to a focus adjustment apparatus for imaging devices, addressing the challenge of achieving precise focus control while minimizing user effort. The apparatus includes a first obtainment unit that measures the focus degree in a predetermined region of the shooting range, determining how sharply an image is in focus. A driving unit adjusts the position of a focus lens in response to user input from an operation unit, such as a manual focus ring or button. The key innovation is that the movement amount of the focus lens per unit of operation (e.g., rotation or press) is dynamically adjusted based on the focus degree. When the focus degree exceeds a predefined threshold, the lens moves more slowly, allowing fine-tuning near the optimal focus point. Conversely, when the focus degree is below the threshold, the lens moves more quickly, enabling rapid coarse adjustments. Additionally, the focus threshold itself is higher when the lens is moving toward increasing focus (e.g., sharpening the image) compared to when it is moving away from focus (e.g., defocusing). This asymmetric threshold ensures that fine adjustments are prioritized when approaching the best focus position, improving user experience and efficiency. The system enhances manual focus control by automatically adapting to the current focus state, reducing overshooting and speeding up the focusing process.
2. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein in a case where an operation speed of the operation unit is higher than a speed threshold, the movement amount of the focus lens per unit of the operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is higher than in a case where the operation speed is lower than the speed threshold and the focus degree is higher than the focus threshold, regardless of the focus degree.
This invention relates to focus adjustment apparatuses, particularly those used in imaging devices like cameras. The problem addressed is improving focus control responsiveness and precision, especially when manually adjusting focus. Traditional systems often struggle to balance speed and accuracy, leading to either slow adjustments or overshooting the desired focus point. The apparatus includes an operation unit for manual focus control and a focus lens that moves in response to user input. The key innovation is a variable speed-to-movement ratio that adjusts based on operation speed and focus conditions. When the user operates the focus control quickly (exceeding a speed threshold), the focus lens moves a greater distance per unit of operation, allowing rapid coarse adjustments. Conversely, when operating slowly, the movement per unit is reduced, enabling fine-tuning. Additionally, if the current focus degree (sharpness) is high (above a focus threshold), the system prioritizes precision regardless of operation speed, ensuring fine adjustments even during fast movements. This adaptive control enhances both speed and accuracy in focus adjustment.
3. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein in a case where the operation speed of the operation unit is higher than the speed threshold, the movement amount of the focus lens per unit of the operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is equal to a movement amount in a case where the operation speed is lower than the speed threshold and the focus degree is lower than the focus threshold, regardless of the focus degree.
This invention relates to a focus adjustment apparatus for optical systems, particularly addressing the challenge of optimizing focus lens movement based on operational speed and focus conditions. The apparatus includes an operation unit for adjusting focus, a focus lens, and a control unit that regulates the lens movement in response to user input. The control unit determines the operation speed of the operation unit and compares it to a predefined speed threshold. When the operation speed exceeds this threshold, the control unit ensures the focus lens moves a fixed amount per unit of operation, regardless of the current focus degree. This fixed movement amount is equivalent to the movement that would occur if the operation speed were below the threshold and the focus degree were below a focus threshold. The apparatus also includes a focus detection unit that measures the focus degree, allowing the control unit to dynamically adjust lens movement based on real-time conditions. The invention aims to improve focus adjustment responsiveness and precision, particularly in scenarios where rapid adjustments are needed, such as during high-speed operation or when the subject is out of focus.
4. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a display control unit configured to display, in a display unit, a shooting screen including a captured image corresponding to the shooting range, wherein the display control unit changes a display format of the shooting screen in accordance with whether the focus degree is greater than or less than the focus threshold.
This invention relates to focus adjustment in imaging systems, specifically addressing the challenge of providing clear visual feedback to users about focus quality during shooting. The apparatus includes a focus detection unit that determines a focus degree within a shooting range, comparing it to a predefined focus threshold. If the focus degree exceeds the threshold, the system indicates optimal focus; if not, it signals the need for adjustment. The apparatus also features a display control unit that presents a shooting screen with the captured image. The display format of this screen dynamically changes based on the focus degree relative to the threshold, enhancing user awareness of focus status. For example, the display may highlight areas of poor focus or adjust visual indicators to guide the user toward proper focus. This system improves usability by providing real-time, intuitive feedback, ensuring users can quickly achieve and verify optimal focus before capturing images. The invention is particularly useful in digital cameras, smartphones, and other imaging devices where precise focus control is critical.
5. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the display control unit displays an image indicating the focus degree in the shooting screen using different colors in accordance with whether the focus degree is greater than or less than the focus threshold.
This invention relates to focus adjustment in imaging systems, particularly for visualizing focus accuracy during shooting. The problem addressed is the difficulty in determining precise focus levels in real-time, especially in digital cameras or video recording devices, where manual or automatic focus adjustments may not provide clear feedback on focus quality. The apparatus includes a focus detection unit that measures the focus degree of a captured image, comparing it against a predefined focus threshold. A display control unit then generates a visual representation of the focus degree within the shooting screen. The key innovation is the use of color-coded indicators to distinguish whether the focus degree exceeds or falls below the threshold. For example, a green color may indicate optimal focus (above threshold), while red may signal poor focus (below threshold). This provides immediate, intuitive feedback to the user, allowing for quick adjustments. The system may also include a focus adjustment unit that automatically or manually modifies focus settings based on the detected focus degree. The display control unit dynamically updates the color-coded indicators as focus changes, ensuring continuous feedback. This approach enhances user experience by simplifying focus assessment and improving shooting accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios requiring precise focus, such as professional photography or videography.
6. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 5 , wherein the image indicating the focus degree includes a graphic in which an angle changes in accordance with the focus degree; and the display control unit displays, in the shooting screen, an image indicating an angle of the graphic corresponding to a case where the focus degree is equal to the focus threshold.
This invention relates to focus adjustment in imaging systems, particularly for providing visual feedback to users during shooting. The problem addressed is the difficulty in accurately assessing focus in real-time, especially in digital cameras or smartphones, where traditional focus indicators may be insufficient or unclear. The apparatus includes a display control unit that generates a shooting screen with a focus indicator. The indicator uses a graphic where the angle changes dynamically based on the focus degree, providing an intuitive visual cue. When the focus degree reaches a predefined threshold, the display shows a specific angle of the graphic, signaling optimal focus. This helps users quickly and accurately adjust focus without needing complex manual adjustments or additional tools. The system may also include a focus detection unit that calculates the focus degree by analyzing image data, and a focus adjustment unit that adjusts focus based on user input or automatic settings. The graphic can be overlaid on the shooting screen, ensuring minimal obstruction while maintaining clarity. The invention improves user experience by simplifying focus assessment, reducing errors, and enhancing shooting efficiency.
7. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 6 , further comprising: a second obtainment unit configured to obtain a target focus degree in the predetermined region, wherein in a case where the focus degree is equal to the target focus degree, the display control unit displays the graphic at an angle indicating that the predetermined region is in focus.
This invention relates to focus adjustment apparatuses used in imaging systems, addressing the challenge of visually indicating when a specific region of an image is in focus. The apparatus includes a first obtainment unit that determines the focus degree of a predetermined region within the image. A display control unit generates and displays a graphic representing the focus degree, with the graphic's angle relative to a reference direction indicating the degree of focus. For example, the graphic may rotate or tilt to show how close the current focus is to the desired focus. Additionally, the apparatus includes a second obtainment unit that retrieves a target focus degree for the predetermined region. When the measured focus degree matches the target focus degree, the display control unit adjusts the graphic's angle to indicate that the region is in focus, providing clear visual feedback to the user. This system enhances precision in focus adjustment by dynamically updating the graphic based on real-time focus measurements and target values.
8. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 4 , wherein the display control unit makes an MF peaking display in the shooting screen, using different colors in accordance with whether the focus degree is greater than or less than the focus threshold.
A focus adjustment apparatus for imaging devices improves autofocus accuracy by visually indicating focus quality during manual focus (MF) operations. The apparatus includes a display control unit that generates a peaking display in the shooting screen, highlighting edges or high-contrast areas in the image. The peaking display uses different colors to distinguish between regions where the focus degree exceeds a predefined threshold (indicating sharp focus) and regions where it falls below the threshold (indicating out-of-focus areas). This color-coded feedback helps users quickly identify and adjust focus to achieve optimal sharpness. The apparatus may also include a focus detection unit that calculates focus degree based on image data, and a focus adjustment unit that adjusts lens position in response to user input. The peaking display dynamically updates as the user adjusts focus, providing real-time guidance. This solution addresses the challenge of manual focusing in digital imaging, where visual cues are often ambiguous, by providing clear, color-based feedback to enhance precision and efficiency.
9. The focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising: a setting unit configured to set a shooting mode, wherein in a case where the set shooting mode is a predetermined shooting mode, the movement amount of the focus lens per unit of the operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is lower in a case where the focus degree is greater than the focus threshold than in a case where the focus degree is lower than the focus threshold.
This invention relates to focus adjustment in imaging devices, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing focus control in different shooting modes. The apparatus includes a focus lens, an operation unit for manual focus adjustment, and a drive unit that moves the focus lens based on the operation amount of the operation unit. A focus detection unit calculates a focus degree, which quantifies the sharpness of the image. The apparatus also includes a setting unit that allows the user to select a shooting mode. In a predetermined shooting mode, the movement amount of the focus lens per unit of operation is dynamically adjusted based on the focus degree. When the focus degree exceeds a predefined threshold, indicating the image is sufficiently sharp, the lens movement per operation unit is reduced. This prevents overshooting the optimal focus point, improving precision in fine-tuning focus. The system ensures smoother and more controlled focus adjustments, particularly in modes requiring high accuracy, such as macro or portrait photography. The invention enhances user experience by adapting focus sensitivity to the current focus state, reducing the need for repeated adjustments.
10. An image capturing apparatus comprising: the focus adjustment apparatus according to claim 1 ; and an image capturing unit.
An image capturing apparatus includes a focus adjustment mechanism and an image capturing unit. The focus adjustment mechanism comprises a focus lens, a lens holder, a voice coil motor, and a position detection sensor. The focus lens is held by the lens holder, which is movable along an optical axis. The voice coil motor drives the lens holder to adjust the focus position of the lens. The position detection sensor detects the position of the lens holder along the optical axis. The image capturing unit captures images through the focus lens. The apparatus ensures precise focus adjustment by detecting and controlling the lens position, enabling high-quality image capture. The voice coil motor provides rapid and accurate movement, while the position detection sensor ensures real-time feedback for optimal focus control. This design is particularly useful in digital cameras, smartphones, and other imaging devices requiring fast and precise autofocus functionality. The system enhances image sharpness and reduces focus errors, improving overall imaging performance.
11. A focus adjustment method comprising: obtaining a focus degree in a predetermined region of a shooting range; and driving a focus lens in response to an operation unit being operated, wherein a movement amount of the focus lens per unit of an operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is lower in a case where the focus degree is greater than a focus threshold than in a case where the focus degree is lower than the focus threshold; and the focus threshold is higher in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that increases the focus degree than in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that reduces the focus degree.
This invention relates to focus adjustment in imaging systems, specifically addressing the challenge of achieving precise focus control while minimizing overshooting or undershooting during manual focus operations. The method involves dynamically adjusting the movement sensitivity of a focus lens based on the current focus degree within a predetermined region of the shooting range. When an operation unit (e.g., a focus ring or button) is used to drive the focus lens, the movement amount per unit of operation is reduced if the focus degree exceeds a predefined threshold, ensuring finer adjustments near optimal focus. The focus threshold itself is adaptively set higher when the lens is moving toward increasing focus (e.g., sharpening the image) and lower when moving away from it, preventing excessive overshooting. This dual-adjustment mechanism enhances focus accuracy by balancing responsiveness and precision, particularly in scenarios requiring fine-tuned manual focus control. The system avoids abrupt lens movements near the desired focus point while maintaining smooth operation elsewhere, improving user experience in photography or videography applications.
12. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium which stores a program for causing a computer to execute a focus adjustment method comprising: obtaining a focus degree in a predetermined region of a shooting range; and driving a focus lens in response to an operation unit being operated, wherein a movement amount of the focus lens per unit of an operation amount of the operation unit during the driving is lower in a case where the focus degree is greater than a focus threshold than in a case where the focus degree is lower than the focus threshold; and the focus threshold is higher in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that increases the focus degree than in a case where the focus lens is moving in a direction that reduces the focus degree.
This invention relates to a focus adjustment system for cameras, addressing the challenge of achieving precise and intuitive manual focus control. The system dynamically adjusts the focus lens movement in response to user input, enhancing accuracy and user experience. A computer program stored on a non-transitory medium executes a focus adjustment method that monitors the focus degree in a predetermined region of the shooting range. When a user operates an input device, the focus lens is driven, but the movement amount per unit of operation is reduced when the focus degree exceeds a predefined threshold, compared to when it is below the threshold. This ensures finer control near optimal focus. Additionally, the focus threshold is higher when the lens is moving toward increased focus (e.g., sharpening the image) than when moving away from it (e.g., defocusing). This asymmetric threshold adjustment prevents overshooting when approaching focus while allowing faster adjustments when defocusing, improving efficiency and precision. The system adapts to the user's actions in real-time, balancing speed and accuracy for better manual focus performance.
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July 12, 2019
February 1, 2022
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